ALLPLAN BRIDGE 2022

BUILDABILITY AT ITS BEST

ONE PARAMETRIC MODEL FOR GEOMETRY, ANALYSIS, DESIGN AND DETAILING

The new Allplan Bridge 2022 version includes a new specialized modeling approach that enables engineers to easily and quickly create accurate geometry for precast girder bridges. For this purpose, a wide range of new functions have been implemented, many of which can also be used more broadly, optimizing modeling efficiency and change management processes. AASHTO LRFD9 design code and checks, as well as improvements to support user friendliness, are also new features. Interoperability and BIM are aided by the incorporation of IFC4.3.

ALLPLAN BRIDGE 2022 FEATURES

The Evolution of Precast Girder Bridge Modeling

Another modeling approach tailored to Precast Girder Bridges

Allplan Bridge’s original parametric modeling approach is based on geometries that follow a road or bridge axis. However, for certain bridge types, such as precast girder bridges, the geometry of the superstructure, particularly the geometry of the precast girders, is governed by the geometry of the substructure and their position along the axis rather than the geometry of the axis.

As a result, a new modeling approach is introduced. This new modeling approach is designed specifically for precast and steel girder bridges. The simple definition speeds up the modeling process and allows users to easily generate an exact model. Several new features were added to enable this workflow, and there are many more that not only simplify but can also be used more broadly.

Optimized Parametric Modular Modeling and Change Implementation

To further optimize the modeling process, not only for precast girder bridges, but for any bridge type where bridge elements are repeated, the new Allplan Bridge version allows users to create and use parametric 3D templates. In this manner, repetitive bridge elements such as straight precast girders must be defined only once and then parametrically placed as many times as required. This not only speeds up the modeling process, but also the process of implementing changes. There are two types of elements that can be used in this manner: “link girders” and “pier elements.”

Precast Girders: Easy, precise, and quick modeling

The basic geometry of a typical precast girder is normally linear – it is governed by the geometry of the substructure rather than the geometry of the bridge or road axis. This is how it is defined in Allplan Bridge as well. After modeling the geometry of the substructure, the precast girder can be generated using the new element type “Link Girder.” Only two reference points per girder must be prepared ahead of time – typically at the top of the substructure. Once they are chosen, the basic geometry of the girder is established, and the next step is completed with the assignment of the corresponding section and tables or formulas if the girder’s section varies.

Link girder modeling with numerous variants

Link Girders are 3D linear elements that connect two 3D points. The 3D points are generated by reference points defined in girder or pier cross-sections. These two 3D points define the girder’s local axis, and from here on, the general approach used in Allplan Bridge applies – an arbitrary cross-section can be assigned, and thus any variation can be modeled. This enables users to use Link girders in a variety of applications, including precast girders, steel girders, overhang supports, various bracings, and many others.

Flexible and precise placement of piers

Piers can now be positioned relative to the axis, relative between two axes, and relative between an axis and a girder in the new version. Furthermore, the offset from the axis can be defined as either a relative distance or an absolute height. This gives the user complete freedom to choose the input that is most appropriate for them based on the data provided, or to input in such a way that the pier geometry will adjust correctly when changes are implemented.

New station types for more convenient data input

New types of stations have been introduced for all element types, girders, piers, link girders, and plates, for both direct definition and template definition, to provide data input options that are even closer to the needs of our customers and their specific data requirements. The following types of stations are now available in Allplan Bridge: Local to an element’s beginning, local to an element’s end, global station, absolute height, and relative station This not only allows a user to tailor the input to the data at hand. Furthermore, the input can be defined in such a way that if changes to the model are required, the dependent and referenced bridge elements are automatically adjusted in a proper manner.

Custom Tree for optimized data management

When it comes to data organization, every user prefers to organize their data in the most logical way possible. Allplan Bridge now allows users to arrange structural members in any order. Multiple workflows are supported by the “Custom tree.” It is possible to generate structural members from the initial navigation tree and then organize them arbitrarily in a subsequent step in the custom tree, or to generate structural members directly from the navigation tree. Because the custom tree item represents a link to the object in the initial navigation tree, the same member can be referenced multiple times. This allows users to organize the same data in two or more different ways, either in the same custom tree or in a new one – multiple custom trees are possible.

Solving real world engineering scenarios for skewed bridges easily

Bridges frequently do not span existing roads orthogonally, but rather at an angle. As a result, the beginning and end of such bridges are usually skewed. The skew section’s geometry is determined not only by the cross-section normal to the bridge axis, but also by the variation of the cross-section and elevation of the axis itself. If the elevation and variations are not linear, this quickly becomes more complicated. Allplan Bridge 2022 offers a solution for these bridges. It is divided into two steps. The first step is to create a template in which the geometry of the bridge with all of its details is generated. In the second step, the template is used to generate the final geometry, where only the skew position and angle must be specified.

AASHTO LRFD 9 for reinforcement design and code checking

The implemented version of AASHTO LRFD 9 addresses the strength, service, and fatigue limit states of reinforced and prestressed sections, as well as the verification of some detailing rules for designed reinforcement. Based on a sectional approach, this provides comprehensive design and code-checking of concrete bridges. The overall process replaces previously calculated internal forces based on the construction schedule while taking creep and shrinkage calculations based on AASHTO functions into account. They are used on a section that has material and cross-sectional properties that change over time. This means that the concrete’s hardening over time, as well as the state of the section, are taken into account (active prestressing tendons, subtraction of ducts or grouting).

Extended code-based design and checks in accordance with Euro norms

The Eurocode design and checks were expanded to include a brittle failure check based on the reduction of prestressing force method, as well as soft and prestressing reinforcement detailing checks. The tasks for ULS and SLS scenarios were combined into a single task. Design processes can thus be optimized.

IFC 4.3 to improve project collaboration

A neutral data format, which plays an important role in the BIM workflow, is required for the use of the openBIM method. In the construction industry, IFC is frequently used. The IFC schema now includes IFC 4.3 for infrastructure construction. The IFC 4.3 schema improves on the previous product and product type structure to better explain the taxonomy of a specific domain. Bridge type and Bridge part type (facility part) are used in the domain of bridges with enhanced object types to represent various bridge elements such as Abutment, Pier, Deck, Foundation, Superstructure, Substructure, and many more.

Because ALLPLAN plays an important role in BuildingSmart, this new schema is supported by both Allplan Engineering and Allplan Bridge. It makes it easier to dismantle the bridge structure. It also includes descriptions of the object’s type, geometry, and materials. All of this improves the quality of the IFC model and leads to smoother BIM coordination and collaboration in bridge projects among all parties involved.

Using the "Accompanying axis" makes modeling even easier.

The term “Accompanying axis” in Allplan Bridge refers to an axis that is parametrically offset from the main axis. It is defined by a fixed or variable offset (distance) in the horizontal and vertical directions from the main axis. With this, it is simple to model bridges with an axis that is oriented in relation to the road axis. Furthermore, side curbs can be modeled in a more comfortable manner using this functionality. Allplan Bridge is also frequently used for modeling other structures, such as retaining walls. Modeling such structures becomes even easier with the “Accompanying axis.”

Additional new features

“Bloss-Curve,” Spline transition in Table definition, Undo & Redo, Pythonpart visualization… and many more new features that significantly improve product interaction. One of them is “Undo & Redo,” a feature that may have been unnecessary due to parametric data description but is now available for maximum user convenience.

THE ALLPLAN BRIDGE WORKFLOW

THE WORLD’S FIRST COMPLETE SOLUTION FOR BRIDGE ENGINEERS

1. CREATING AXES

You can adopt the data from an existing design (using LandXML data format) or define it manually.

2. DEFINING A CROSS-SECTION

You can define any cross-section and determine the geometry with its dependence and variables.

3. REFERENCING STANDARD PROFILES

When defining the cross-section, standardized and repeatedly arranged cross-section parts such as longitudinal stiffeners in steel can be easily placed in the section.

4. CREATING COMPROMISE-FREE 3D MODEL

The model in Allplan Bridge is completely parametric. Changes can be made at any time. The dependent objects are adjusted automatically. Allplan Bridge is appropriate for all phases of work, from concept to detailed design.

5. PRESTRESSING MODELING MADE SIMPLE

Create a wide range of pre-stressing types: with an immediate or later bond, internal and external, longitudinal, transverse, and vertical, or non-standard geometry.

6. PLANNING THE TENSIONING PROCESS

A stressing sequence can be defined for each tendon specified in the model.

7. 4TH DIMENSION: DEFINING CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE

By simply specifying the construction process, time as the 4th dimension is taken into account. The construction plan is divided into phases, which are further subdivided into individual tasks. These tasks are assigned to the related structural components in an interactive manner.

8. DERIVATING AUTOMATICALLY THE ANALYSIS MODEL

Allplan Bridge uses cutting-edge technology to automatically generate the analysis model from the geometrical model. This significantly reduces the amount of work and the likelihood of errors.

9. ASSEMBLING CONSTRUCTION SEQUENCE CALCULATION

Allplan Bridge analyzes the defined construction schedule and automates the creation of all necessary calculation definitions, such as load cases, element activations, and calculation actions.

10. CREEP, SHRINKAGE AND RELAXATION

The calculation of creep and shrinkage of concrete, as well as prestressing steel relaxation, is code-compliant in Allplan Bridge.

11. APPLYING ADDITIONAL LOADS

The geometrical model automatically retrieves the weight and position of superimposed dead loads (such as sidewalks, road pavement, and so on). Additional loads, such as temperature changes or wind loads, can also be easily defined and applied.

12. DEFINING TRAFFIC LOAD

Traffic loads can be defined and applied in a very comfortable way. On the one hand, traffic loads can be applied automatically according to the selected standard.

13. CALCULATING AND EVALUATING THE INFLUENCE LINES

Using the theory of (related) influence lines, Allplan Bridge can quickly and easily determine the most unfavorable effects due to traffic loads.

14. CALCULATING OF EIGEN MODES

On the undamped system, the natural modes of the structure are calculated by determining the roots of the homogeneous equation system.

15. RESPONSE SPECTRUM ANALYSIS

The design codes include analytic solutions for typical structures and unit impacts as relevant response spectra, which specify the relevant proportionality factors for the individual eigenmodes based on the natural frequency.

16. SUPERPOSITION

The ease of use of the superposition in Allplan Bridge is revolutionary. The superposition's schematic definition combines maximum flexibility with maximum overview.

17. COMBINATIONS

The definition and visualization of combinations in table form provide the user with an overview of not only the defined load factors but also the various types of combinations.

18. PERFORMING STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS

For all automatically and manually generated calculation actions defined previously in the construction sequence definition, a global static analysis based on Bernoulli beam theory is performed.

19. CODE-BASED DESIGN

After calculating the global effects and generating the corresponding envelopes, the user can perform the code-dependent design to determine the required reinforcement area.

20. PARAMETRIC OBJECT PLACEMENT

Objects from the Allplan Engineering library can be referenced in Allplan Bridge to add additional details to the bridge model, such as lamp posts or tendons anchor devices.

21.IMPLEMENTING CHANGES

Allplan Bridge assists you in dealing with the inevitable changes that occur during the design process. The parametric model description is an excellent starting point for modifying geometrical and analytical models.

22. FREE FORM MODELING

The powerful 3D modeling functionality enables the implementation of all bridge details without compromise: simply, flexibly, and precisely. Siemens' Parasolid® modeling kernel easily handles intricate free-form geometry based on B-Splines and NURBS, as well as standard tasks like joints, cut-outs, and drainage.

23. REINFORCEMENT MODELING

Even challenging bridges with double curvature and varying cross-sections can be reinforced quickly and easily with Allplan. The reinforcement is defined in different cross-sections, and the transitions between the cross-sections are described with paths. Various rules, such as how the reinforcement joints should be carried out, can be defined. The reinforcement is generated automatically using this information.

24. CREATE DRAWINGS

The digital bridge model is used to generate elevations, longitudinal sections along any path, and transverse sections. Maxon's CineRender is used for realistic visualizations. To create high-quality construction documentation, Allplan's powerful layout and design tools are used.

25. CREATE REPORTS

The digital bridge model contains a wealth of data. At the touch of a button, comprehensive reports with dimensions, areas, volumes, weights, and quantities are available.

26. SMOOTH DATA EXCHANGE

ALLPLAN's open BIM platform Allplan Bimplus makes it simple to integrate road data used for road/bridge alignment. The bridge engineer only needs to take over the road data and can begin working on the bridge design right away. When the design is finished, the parametric model can be imported into Allplan Engineering and analysis software.

27. EXCHANGE THE ANALYTICAL MODEL

The analytical model generated in Allplan Bridge can be shared with other analysis solutions connected to Allplan Bimplus.

28. BIM COLLABORATION

Everyone involved has access to the most recent design, anytime, anywhere, and on any device, thanks to the combination of Allplan and the cloud-based BIM platform Allplan Bimplus. BIM coordination takes place in real time on the digital bridge model. Disagreements are identified early and resolved collaboratively. This is an important contribution to completing the construction project on time and within budget.

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> Optimal work processes for bridge design

> Improved BIM workflows

> Easy optimization of bridge geometry

> Specialized solution for precast girder bridges

> Parametric modular modeling

> Maximum flexibility and reduction in errors due to design modifications

> AASHTO LRFD9 integrated / IFC4.3 supported

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GSI Group is the authorized partner for Allplan solutions in Asia.

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